GoFundMe launched for local man after life-altering ATV accident
Peter L. Smith
Published online September 10, 2025, at www.pontiacjournal.com.
SHEENBORO – A fundraising campaign has been launched to support 21-year-old Cole Poirier, who lost his right leg below the knee following a serious ATV accident on August 3 near Fort William in Sheenboro.
Poirier collided with a car on Perrault Road and was thrown into a ditch lined with sharp brush. Despite severe injuries, he managed to call 911 and then his father, Sean, who lives in nearby Chichester.
“When I found Cole, his leg was twisted around with bones sticking out and there was a lot of blood,” recalled Sean. “He likely saved his own life by using his shirt as a tourniquet. I used my belt to help control the bleeding.”
Cole was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, which his father says also saved his life. The Sûreté du Québec and paramedics arrived on scene, though Sean later expressed concern over the response time. Because Cole’s cellphone has an Ontario number, his 911 call was first routed to Ontario dispatch before it was transferred to Quebec. Additionally, they dispatched a Gatineau ambulance service instead of one that would have been closer.
Poirier was initially treated at Pembroke Regional Hospital before he was transferred to the Ottawa Hospital. He received multiple blood transfusions before doctors determined amputation was the only option.
Cole is now recovering at his father’s home, where both Sean and his mother, Lisa, have taken time off work to care for him. His treatment requires frequent bandage changes, and he will eventually be fitted with a prosthetic.
Sean has organized a GoFundMe campaign (https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-cole-recover-after-serious-atv-accident) to assist with medical expenses and related costs. He noted that navigating Ontario’s healthcare system has added challenges, and he has enlisted a lawyer to help with paperwork.
Despite the difficult road ahead, Cole has received strong support from family, friends, and the community. His employer, Jason Ryan of JWK Construction in Pembroke, has promised to keep Cole’s job open for him and provide accommodations when he’s ready to return.
“Cole has a long recovery ahead, but he’s already showing encouraging signs,” concluded Sean.
Photo – Cole Poirier lost his right leg below the knee in an ATV accident August 3 in Sheenboro. (Submitted)
